GERALDINE Howley – group chief executive of Keighley social housing provider Incommunities – has been awarded an OBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours List.

She said the accolade – for services to housing, young people and the local community – was tribute to the efforts of everyone at the group, which has over 22,600 homes in the Bradford district and across West and South Yorkshire.

Ms Howley began her housing career as a temporary receptionist with Bradford Council more than 35 years ago, eventually becoming the authority's director of housing.

She has headed-up Incommunities since 2003.

Two years ago she served as president of the Chartered Institute of Housing and during her term in office helped raise over £47,000 for The Prince's Trust.

And in May last year, she was appointed vice-chairman of the institute's governing board.

Ms Howley also co-founded GEM, a professional development programme which has seen more than 130 graduates move into careers since its launch eight years ago.

"It is an incredible feeling to receive this award," she said.

"As someone who has been brought up in this district and built a career here, the honour is an extremely humbling one that I want to share with my family and friends.

"This award is also great recognition for the enormous work and investment that Incommunities, as a group, has devoted to transforming local homes and investing in people's lives.

"I am a strong believer in team work and see this as a tribute to many brilliant and dedicated people who have worked with me over the years."

Tribute is paid by Jan Ormondroyd, chairman of the Incommunities board.

"I am delighted for Geraldine," she said.

"Her passion and drive have helped transform housing in the district and Geraldine has become an influential figure representing the sector at local, national and international levels.

"Equally, she has proved an inspiring role model for young people coming into the sector."

Last year, Ms Howley was made a Doctor of the University of Bradford for her contribution to housing across the district.

She also received a national Women in Housing Landmark Achievement Award.